How to Change Time Server in Windows 11
Changing the time server in Windows 11 lets your computer sync its clock with alternative atomic time sources instead of the default time.windows.com. Windows 11 relies on these internet time servers to prevent clock drift and keep your system time accurate.
You can switch to servers like time.nist.gov in just a few clicks through the Control Panel without needing any special software.
Open Settings , navigate to Time & language Date & time, and click Change next to your current time server. You can also use the Control Panel by going to Clock and Region Set the time and date, then selecting the Internet Time tab and clicking Change settings.
Change Time Server Using the Settings App
You can change time server Windows 11 settings by opening the main menu and updating your clock preferences. This method lets you pick a new time server using the modern interface without opening advanced system tools. Head to the date and time options to select a fresh server and keep your computer clock accurate.
- Click Time & language on the left side.
- Click Date & time on the right side to see more options.
- Scroll down and click the Sync now tile to expand it.
- Click the Change button next to where it shows your current time server.
- Type the address of the new time server you want to use. For example, type
time.nist.govand click OK.
Selecting a reliable clock ensures your Windows 11 computer syncs properly. Your computer then gets its accurate time from the new server you select, improving timekeeping accuracy for all applications.


Change Time Server Using Control Panel
You can change time server Windows 11 options through the classic Control Panel if you prefer traditional system tools. This method gives you direct access to the internet time settings where you can choose an alternative server. Open the region settings, find the internet time tab, and update your server address in a few clicks.
- Open the Control Panel.
- Go to Clock and Region.
- Click Set the time and date.
- In the pop-up window, select the Internet Time tab.
- Click Change settings. ⚠️ This step requires admin privileges.
- Choose a time server from the list or type your own.
- Click Update now and then OK.
The Control Panel grants direct control over your time settings. Your computer tests the new server and updates system time immediately.



Add or Change Time Servers Using the Registry Editor (Advanced)
You can add or change time servers Windows 11 configurations using the Registry Editor for advanced system control. This tool lets you type in custom server addresses directly by updating specific system keys. Make sure you back up your files first, as changing registry values incorrectly can cause system problems.
- Open the Registry Editor by typing
regeditin the Start menu search and pressing Enter. ⚠️ This step requires admin privileges. - Navigate to this folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\DateTime\Servers - If the Servers folder doesn't exist, right-click on DateTime, select New Key, and name it Servers.
- In the right pane, you will see servers listed as numbers (0, 1, 2, etc.). Each number represents a time server address.
- To add a new server, right-click in the right pane. Choose New String Value. Name it the next number, like 3. Then double-click it and enter the server address, such as
time.google.com. - Next, go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\w32time\Parameters - Double-click the NtpServer entry and replace the value with the server you want to use. For example, type:
time.google.com,0x9 - Save and close the Registry Editor.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes. ⚠️ A restart requires admin privileges.
Editing the registry allows custom time server setups or management of multiple servers. Your computer uses the newly added servers for time syncing.


Summary
You can change time server Windows 11 settings using three different methods depending on what you prefer. Use the Settings app for a quick fix, the Control Panel for the traditional tool, or the Registry Editor for advanced control. The default server is time.windows.com, but you can replace it with options like time.nist.gov or pool.ntp.org.- You can change the Internet Time Server in Windows 11 using the Settings app, Control Panel, or Registry Editor.
- The default server is
time.windows.com. Other reliable options includetime.nist.govandpool.ntp.org. - Pick a reliable time server to keep your clock accurate.
- After changing the server, restart your PC to make sure the change takes effect.
- Regular syncing helps keep your computer's time correct for apps and services.
- If you want to learn more about keeping your Windows 11 PC running smoothly, check out Geek Rewind for helpful guides and tips!
How do I change the time server in 🪟 Windows 11?
To change your Windows machine to use the time server, open the Control Panel, select Date and Time, go to the Internet Time tab, click Change Settings, and then select your desired server from the dropdown list, ensuring "Synchronize with an internet time server" is checked.
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Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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